The Bears need to protect Justin Fields by getting a franchise OL in the 2022 Draft
When the Bears selected Justin Fields, it felt like they had a legitimate hope for a top quarterback for the first time in decades. Fields was not only a prototypical passer with a rocket arm and a 4.40 forty-yard dash; he carried himself like a leader.
But as talented and confident as he is, Fields’ success isn’t guaranteed. After a season where the Bears allowed the most sacks in the NFL (58) and given their history at quarterback, Chicago would do well to remember that fact.
Without a significant investment up front in the 2022 Draft, the Bears may squander their best quarterback hope in decades.
Barring a trade-up, here are some notable offensive linemen — across various positions — that could be available by the time Chicago picks at No. 39 overall in the second round:
Bernhard Raiman, OT — Central Michigan Tyler Smith, OT — Tulsa Kenyon Green, OG — Texas A&M Tyler Linderbaum, C — IowaLinderbaum might be the most intriguing and impactful name of that group.
A 2021 unanimous All-American, Linderbaum made his reputation for bullying unfortunate defenders over four years in Iowa City. With a mean attitude and finishing ability, scouts have understandably said he has Pro Bowl ability.
Now imagine Linderbaum snapping the ball to Fields for most of their respective careers.
The bad news for the Bears is that Linderbaum might not be available by the time they’re up to pick. Our Christian D’Andrea has Linderbaum going a lot earlier in the first round.
But NFL teams don’t necessarily value franchise centers the way they would, say, franchise tackles. Other major mocks have seen Linderbaum fall to the second as a result. If he’s within striking distance of Chicago — which also has No. 48 overall after trading Khalil Mack — I don’t think anyone at Halas Hall would be displeased if the Bears pounced on a trade-up to get the mammoth cornerstone for Fields.
Fields needs a long-running bodyguard up front. Even if the Bears don’t get Linderbaum, they should have plenty of options when they’re on the clock.